Mental mathematics is a combination of cognitive strategies that enhance flexible thinking and number sense. It is calculating mentally without the use of external memory aids. Mental mathematics enables students to determine answers without paper and pencil. It improves computational fluency by developing efficiency, accuracy and flexibility. "Even more important than performing computational procedures or using calculators is the greater facility that students need - more than ever before - with estimation and mental math" (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, May 2005). Students proficient with mental mathematics "become liberated from calculator dependence, build confidence in doing mathematics, become more flexible thinkers and are more able to use multiple approaches to problem solving" (Rubenstein, 2001, p. 442). Mental mathematics "provides the cornerstone for all estimation processes, offering a variety of alternative algorithms and nonstandard techniques for finding answers" (Hope, 1988, p. v). Estimation is used for determining approximate values or quantities or for determining the reasonableness of calculated values. It often uses benchmarks or referents. Students need to know when to estimate, how to estimate and what strategy to use. Estimation assists individuals in making mathematical judgements and in developing useful, efficient strategies for dealing with situations in daily life.
Brief Explanation
(Alberta Program of Studies)Mental mathematics is a combination of cognitive strategies that enhance flexible thinking and number sense. It is calculating mentally without the use of external memory aids.
Mental mathematics enables students to determine answers without paper and pencil. It improves computational fluency by developing efficiency, accuracy and flexibility.
"Even more important than performing computational procedures or using calculators is the greater facility that students need - more than ever before - with estimation and mental math" (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, May 2005).
Students proficient with mental mathematics "become liberated from calculator dependence, build confidence in doing mathematics, become more flexible thinkers and are more able to use multiple approaches to problem solving" (Rubenstein, 2001, p. 442).
Mental mathematics "provides the cornerstone for all estimation processes, offering a variety of alternative algorithms and nonstandard techniques for finding answers" (Hope, 1988, p. v).
Estimation is used for determining approximate values or quantities or for determining the reasonableness of calculated values. It often uses benchmarks or referents. Students need to know when to estimate, how to estimate and what strategy to use.
Estimation assists individuals in making mathematical judgements and in developing useful, efficient strategies for dealing with situations in daily life.
Research
Characteristics of a Numerate Individual
Clearly Identified Key Outcomes
1) Number Sense
2) Patterns and Relations
3) Shape and Space
4) Statistics and Probability
Balanced Assessment Practices
Purposeful Instructional Strategies
Personalization of Learning